Club Information

Club History

The Cariboo Ski Touring Club (CSTC) was formed in 1975 to further all aspects of cross- country skiing in the Quesnel area, and has been in continuous operation since that time. The current club membership is around 450 members with many others who enjoy the sport but prefer to use the day pass system.

The club began with trails in various locations but the main venue is now at Hallis Lake with a trail system totalling about 75 kilometers. The CSTC was recognized by the Ministry of Forests as the winter user of the Hallis Lake Community Pasture in the late 1970’s and ski trails were developed, signed and mapped. Regular track-setting began in 1989 with the acquisition of the twin track snowmobile used in the 1988 Olympics. In 1993 the CSTC took a huge step forward and acquired a Pisten Bully snow cat to track set and groom trails. The purchase of this machine would not have been possible without the assistance of North Cariboo Community Futures. The original snow cat was replaced in 2012 by a near-new unit used in the 2010 Olympics.

In 1995 the Ministry of Forests was approached regarding development of a full cross-country ski facility at Hallis Lake. The ministry was in full support and development was methodically carried out following the “Master plan” created to ensure the venue was properly planned. The 3,000 square foot lodge was opened in 1998. Also, a large equipment shed and a timing hut were completed at the facility as well as lighted trails and a biathlon range.

The club has undertaken several initiatives to further cross-country skiing. We have had a Jack Rabbit program to provide lessons for young skiers since 1981. There is also a biathlon program which provides teenage skiers with coaching and development opportunities. In 2012 we began a school program to provide instruction to elementary school students. Adult lessons are also offered. We now have a rental shop for those who don’t own equipment and wish to try the sport. Every January we host an open house to introduce people to our facility and our sport.

CSTC was one of the first clubs to designate a dog friendly trail where the whole family including Fido could enjoy the outing. We now have two such trails. This idea has been copied by other clubs.

The CSTC hosted the 2000 BC Winter Games cross-country ski and biathlon events as well as the 2002 BC Winter Games biathlon. BC Cup biathlon events have been hosted several times. CSTC also has an annual loppet which is held in late January.